2 Kings 14

Wow, the kings and relatives with J names has confused me more. I had to look up the reign of kings in Kings to get somewhat straight again. This chapter reminds me of the need to make mistakes to learn consequences. Unfortunately the mistake Amaziah makes is a big one.

Amaziah trusts in God and goes into battle with the Edomites and took Sela. What we don’t see in 2 Kings here is that after the slaughter of the Edomites, Amaziah took the gods of the people of Sier, set them up to be his gods and burned incense to them. This can be found in 2 Chronicles 25:14. This action angers God (of course). Then Amaziah sent the messengers to the king of Israel, challenging him to meet face to face. King Amaziah was prideful of his wins and has scorned God. King Jehoash of Israel tried to warn Amaziah not to try and be ambitious and to stay at home.

This is the part as a person might say “Take my advice...” and the other is thinking “I make my own rules.” Amaziah pursued the war against Jehoash’s advice and ended up being captured. He didn’t listen, didn’t seek counsel with men of God before this, didn’t think well before making his decision. His mind was already made up, and it cost him.

I remember growing up pushing against the rules, wanting to make my own mistakes. And I value the lessons I learned from them. In a current bible study on Wisdom:God’s Vision for Life by Jeff Cavins, and we have learned valuable steps in decision making. First is to talk with God. James 1:5 reminds us "But if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God who gives to all generously and ungrudgingly, and he will be given it."

The next step is gathering important data. Look for everything you can find on the topic (Proverbs 13:16), as well as study God's word. Then talk to knowledgeable people (Proverbs 24:6, 11:14). The next big thing is to ask yourself "what will this decision cost me?" Think about how much time it will take, how much it would cost or save you, what resources you would need to obtain it, and what gifts you have that you could use. 

A big thing to consider is how might this decision affect your vocation. How could this decision affect your career or occupation? Another question is how does your experience play into this decision (Proverbs 26:11). How does your family background affect this decision? Could this decision affect your reputation and witness? Remember, "a good name is more desirable than riches, and high esteem, than gold and silver (Proverbs 22:1)." Also, make sure you don't wait for perfection. There may be a right time for things, but there will never be a perfect time if you keep watching from the sidelines. (Ecclesiastes 11:4) Finally, act on the decision. 

The biggest thing to remember is even if you end up making the wrong decision, if you kept God but your side through the decision making God will always be with you. The key to this long message is don’t be like Amaziah. Think about the decision before you make it. Trust in God.